2021 resolutions committee report - iasb.com

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2021 Resolutions Committee Report
For the 2021 Delegate Assembly meeting on November 20, 2021
September 2021
FROM: Simon Kampwerth, Jr., Resolutions Committee Chair
DATE: September 2021
SUBJECT: 2021 Resolutions Committee Report to the Membership
Thank you for your interest in the 2021 Resolutions Committee Report to the Membership. Proposals set forth in this report will be acted upon at the Annual Meeting of the IASB Delegate Assembly, which convenes at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 20, 2021.
The Resolutions Process is vital to the Association’s mission, and the Delegate Assembly is one of the most important functions conducted by IASB. It gives member districts ownership in the Association and the opportunity to establish the direction of the Association and its major policies. Every member district has a delegate, a vote, and a voice.
Participation in the resolutions process is important. Submitting new resolutions, discussing the resolutions at your local board meeting, sharing your insight with other boards, and sending a well-informed delegate to the assembly all are key actions for you to take.
This booklet is provided in the fall and is intended to allow your board time to discuss the resolutions. You can use the My Board’s Recommendations on page 4 to track how your district wants to vote. We hope that this will increase participation and enthusiasm from member districts.
Your board will need to choose one delegate and can then register that delegate online with IASB in advance. Please note, only roster managers can register a delegate online.
On behalf of the Resolutions Committee, thank you for your interest in the Resolutions Process.
Resolutions Committee Report, 2021 1
Service of the following school board members on the 2021 Resolutions Committee is acknowledged with sincere appreciation.
Chair ..................................................Simon Kampwerth, Jr. ........................................................ Peru ESD 124 Abe Lincoln .............................................Amy Reynolds ....................................................Rochester CUSD 3A Blackhawk ................................................. Julie Wagner .................................................Mercer County SD 404 Central IL Valley ............................... Charlie Zimmerman ................................................. Washington SD 52 Corn Belt ................................................... Nick Sartoris ...........................................................Pontiac THSD 90 DuPage ........................................................James Blair .............................................................Salt Creek SD 48 Egyptian ....................................................... Lisa Irvin ............................................Opdyke-Belle Rive CCSD 5 Illini .................................................. Elizabeth Sotiropoulos ............................................ Champaign CUSD 4 Kaskaskia ...................................................Kent Kistler ................................................ Brownstown CUSD 201 Kishwaukee .............................................Stephen Nelson ..................................................Sycamore CUSD 427 Lake ...............................................................Odie Pahl ...................................................................Gurnee SD 56 North Cook ......................................... Anna Klimkowicz .................................................. Township HSD 211 Northwest ..................................................Steve Snider ...................................................... Eastland CUSD 308 Shawnee ............................................... Vernon Stubblefield ..........................................................Cairo CUSD 1 South Cook .............................................Wilbur Tillman .............................................................Dolton SD 149 Southwestern ........................................ Currently Vacant ...................................................................................... Starved Rock ............................................. Carol Alcorn ............................................... LaSalle-Peru THSD 120 Three Rivers ............................................Chris Trzeciak .......................................................Homer CCSD 33C Two Rivers .................................................Rodney Reif ....................................................... Carrollton CUSD 1 Wabash Valley ..........................................Chad Weaver .................................................... Hutsonville CUSD 1 West Cook ............................................. Dianne Williams ........... Maywood-Melrose Park-Broadview SD 89 Western ......................................................Scott Vogler ......................................................West Prairie SD 103
Delegate Assembly Agenda 1. Call to Order 2. Report of the Credentials Committee 3. Approval of Delegate Assembly Business Rules 4. President’s Report, Tom Neeley 5. Executive Director’s Report, Thomas Bertrand, Ph.D. 6. Financial Report, Linda Eades 7. Election of Officers
A. Nominating Committee Report, Joanne Osmond, Nominating Committee Chair 8. Resolutions Committee Report, Simon Kampwerth, Jr., Resolutions Committee Chair
A. New Resolutions B. Amended Existing Position Statement C. Reaffirmation of Existing Positions
9. Belief Statements A. New Belief Statements B. Amended Belief Statement
11. Adjournment
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2021 IASB Resolutions Committee ............................................................................2
Delegate Assembly Agenda ..........................................................................................2
New Belief Statement ................................................................................................ 18
Amended Belief Statement ........................................................................................ 19
Current IASB Belief Statements ................................................................................ 33
My Board’s Recommendation Support/Oppose NEW RESOLUTIONS q q 1. Pre-Service Teacher Education and Licensure in Literacy
q q 2. Student Safety and Protection Plan
q q 3. School Board Member Compensation
q q 4. Board Member Childcare Reimbursement
q q 5. Remote-Virtual School Board Open Meetings
q q 6. Reorganize Board – From 28 to 40 days
q q 7. Indigenous People Curriculum Inclusion
q q 8. Science of Reading Curriculum
q q 9. Health & Sex Education Curriculum
q q 10. Cannabis Sales
q q 11. Clean Energy Infrastructure Federal Funding
q q 12. Electric School Buses/Charging Stations Federal Funding
q q 13. Landscaping Federal Funding
q q 14. Expand Broadband Internet Access
q q 15. Child Safe Gun Storage
q q 16. School Code Review
AMENDED EXISTING RESOLUTION q q 17. Constitutional Amendment on School Funding
REAFFIRMATION OF EXISTING POSITIONS q q 18. Position Statement 1.16 Charter Schools – Renewal of Charters
q q 19. Position Statement 1.17 Charter Schools – At-Risk Students
q q 20. Position Statement 2.25 State Authorized Charter School Funding
q q 21. Position Statement 2.04 Funding Special Education Programs
NEW BELIEF STATEMENTS q q 22. Prepare All Students to Succeed
AMENDED BELIEF STATEMENT q q 23. Physical and Mental Health of Students
CURRENT POSITIONS INDEX Abatements for Home Builders (2.46) ............................................26 Administrative Caps (6.12) ................................................................30 Alternative Schools (2.15) ..................................................................22 Annexing District Requirements (7.03) ..........................................32 Background Checks-Substitute Teachers (5.13) ............................29 Bidding Contracts — Local Bidders (6.16) ....................................30 Bilingual Education (6.13) .................................................................30 Bilingual Education Options (1.13) .................................................20 Board Member Involvement (3.01) ..................................................27 Board Member — Travel Reimbursement (4.02) .........................28 Board Rights (5.01) ..............................................................................28 Bond and Interest Levy (2.40) ..........................................................25 Budget Stability for School Districts (3.09) ....................................28 Business Enterprises-Minority Owned (4.05) ...............................28 Candidate Support (3.02) ...................................................................27 Capital Funding for School Construction (2.11) ..........................22 Categorical Reductions Prospective Only (2.24) ..........................23 Changes in School Accounting Practices (2.37) ...........................25 Charter School-Renewal of Charters (1.16) ...................................21 Charter Schools-At Risk Students (1.17) ........................................21 Collective Bargaining (5.03) ..............................................................28 Constitutional Amendment on School Funding (2.20) .............23 Constitutional Convention Support (6.15) ....................................30 Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax (2.05) ...............22 Curricular Material Determination (1.02) .....................................19 Data Utilization (3.06) ........................................................................27 Design Profession Selection (6.10) ...................................................30 Detachment from Unit District (7.04) ............................................32 Discipline for Special Education Students (1.07) ..........................19 District Reorganization (7.01) ...........................................................31 EAV Adjustments — Timely Notification (2.49) .........................26 Educational Labor Relations Board Procedures (6.03) ...............30 Educational Programs (1.01) .............................................................19 Effective Date and State Board Rules and Regulations (3.05) ...27 E-Learning Election Days (6.21) ......................................................31 E-Rate Discount Program (2.55) ......................................................26 Elected State Board of Education (3.08) .........................................28 Election Schedules (7.07) ....................................................................32 Energy Savings Funding and Borrowing (2.53) ...........................26 ESP Contracts (5.06) ...........................................................................29 Every Student Succeeds Act — Military Recruitment (1.10) .....20 Evidence-Based Funding Model (2.36) ..........................................25 Fair Labor Standards Act (6.14)........................................................30 Freedom of Information Act Changes (6.17) ................................31 Funding for Differentiated Instruction (1.12) ...............................20 Funding Mandated Programs (2.03) ..............................................21 Funding Sources (2.02) .......................................................................21 Funding Special Education Programs (2.04) ................................21 General Assembly Rules (3.04) .........................................................27 Homeless Student Transportation (6.18) ........................................31 Home Schooling Policy (6.09) ..........................................................30 Illinois Educational Labor Relations Act (5.07) ............................29 Impact Aid (Student Housing) (2.39) .............................................22 Impact Fees for Residential Development (2.39) ..........................25 ISBE Oversight Agreement (2.22) ....................................................23 ISBE Rules and Regulations Review (6.07) ....................................30
Life Safety Fund Use (2.60) ...............................................................27 Limited Bill Introductions (3.03) .....................................................27 Local Control (6.01).............................................................................29 Local Control Pandemic (6.22) ........................................................31 Local Legislative Visits (3.07) ............................................................28 Local Tax Collection and Distribution (2.13) ...............................22 Local Taxes on School Districts (2.41) ............................................25 Longitudinal Data Systems (1.19) ....................................................21 Mandate Cost and Periodic Review (6.19) .....................................31 Multi-County School District GSA Offset (2.23) .........................23 Non-Public School Funding (2.56) ..................................................26 Non-Public Student Reporting (2.57) .............................................27 Non-Resident Student Tuition (2.21) ...............................................23 P.E. Exemption for Show Choir (1.04) ............................................19 Pension — Normal Cost Shift (2.50) ..............................................26 Periodic Review of State and Federal Mandates (6.02) ...............29 Permissive Rate Equalization (2.08) ................................................22 PTELL — Debt Service Extension Base (2.47) .............................26 PTELL — No Penalty for Under Levy (2.48) ................................26 Physical Education (1.03) ...................................................................19 Polling Places in Schools (7.08).........................................................32 Preschool Programs (1.06).................................................................19 Prevailing Wage Act (5.05) ................................................................29 Priority and Support (2.01) ................................................................21 Property Tax Assessment and Collection (2.28) ..........................24 Property Tax Base (2.29) ....................................................................24 Property Tax Cap (2.33) .....................................................................24 Property Tax Cap — GSA Calculation (2.34) ...............................25 Property Tax Classification (2.35) ...................................................25 Property Tax Cap Expiration (2.43) ................................................25 Property Tax Rate Increases (2.42) ..................................................25 Public Question Voting Dates (7.05) ...............................................32 Railroad Crossings (6.06) ...................................................................30 Residential Placement Costs (2.09) ..................................................22 Sales Tax for School Districts (2.45) ................................................26 School as Polling Place Reimbursement (7.09) .............................32 School Attendance Days (1.11)..........................................................20 School Ballot Format (7.06) ...............................................................32 School Board Member Training (4.03) ...........................................28 School Board Elections-Seating of New Members (7.10) ...........32 School Board Elections-Terms (7.11) ...............................................32 School Construction Grant Index (2.19) ........................................23 School Construction Grant Program (2.18) ..................................23 School District Police Force (5.12) ...................................................29 School District Reorganization Voting Requirements (7.02) ....32 School Employee Strikes (5.10) .........................................................29 School Facility Occupation Tax (2.51) ............................................26 School Funding and Taxation Reform (2.17) ................................23 School Safety Grant Program (2.27) ...............................................24 School Safety-Traffic Zones (6.20) ...................................................31 Self-Insure Risk (4.01) .........................................................................28 Site Development (2.23) .....................................................................24 Special Education Student Transportation Cost (2.26) ..............24 Standardized Test Procedures (1.08) ...............................................20 Standing on Tax Appeals (2.30) .......................................................24 Statement of Affairs (4.04) .................................................................28
Current Positions IndexResolutions Committee Report, 2021 5
State Aid Payments (2.10) ..................................................................22 State and Federal Grant Carryover (2.61) ......................................27 State and Local Federal Tax Deduction (2.53) ..............................26 State Authorized Charter School Funding (2.25) ........................24 State Board Communication (6.04) .................................................30 Statutory Job Descriptions (6.11) ......................................................30 Student Academic Placement (1.14) .................................................20 Student Assessment (1.09) .................................................................20 Student Discipline Practices (1.18) ...................................................21 Student Retention and High School Completion (1.05) .............19 Students on Public Aid (6.08) ...........................................................30 Summer School Funding (2.12)........................................................22 Tax Assessment Schedules (2.07) .....................................................22 Tax-Exempt Bond Use (2.59) ............................................................27 Tax Increment Financing (2.31) .......................................................24
Tax Increment Financing (2.52) .......................................................26 Tax Law and Assessment Practices (2.38) .....................................25 Tax Levy Amendments (2.14) ...........................................................22 Teacher Prep-Reading Instruction (5.14) .......................................29 Teacher Salaries (Length of Contract) (5.02) .................................28 Teacher Shortage (5.15).......................................................................29 Tenure Repeal (5.09) ...........................................................................29 Third Party Contracting (5.11) .........................................................29 Tort Immunity Fund (2.16) ...............................................................23 Transportation for Private School Students (2.58).......................27 Truth in Taxation (2.44) .....................................................................26 Unemployment Compensation (Substitute Teachers) (5.04) .....29 Virtual Charter Schools (1.15) ..........................................................20 Workers’ Compensation Law (5.08) ................................................29 Zoning Hearing Participation (6.05)...............................................30
Delegate Assembly Business Rules
DELEGATE ASSEMBLY BUSINESS RULES 1. Business Procedures — Robert’s Rules of Order Newly
Revised shall govern. 2. Credentials — Delegates shall be registered with the
Credentials Committee. 3. Delegate Seating — Only those delegates seated in the
reserved section will be permitted to participate in the business session.
4. Recognition by Chair — Delegates wishing to speak on a motion shall rise and be recognized by the Chair before speaking. They shall give their full name and the name of the board they represent.
5. Debate on the Floor — No delegate shall speak in debate more than twice on the same question and no longer than five minutes at one time. No delegate shall speak a second time on the same question until all persons have had an opportunity to speak at least once.
6. Calls for the Question — A delegate may “call for the question” to end debate on a motion. The delegate may not make such a motion if, immediately preceding the motion, he or she has engaged in discussion of the motion or otherwise participated in the debate. A motion, a second, and a 2/3 majority vote is required to end debate.
7. Consent Agenda — Use of a Consent Agenda to expedite the proceedings is authorized. Proposed resolutions which have been recommended “Do Adopt” by the Resolutions Committee may appear on a Consent Agenda.
8. Appeals — Those delegates wishing to appeal a “Do Not Adopt” recommendation of the Resolutions Committee, and have met the notice provisions required by Article IX, Section 5 of the IASB Constitution, shall have a period of time not to exceed five minutes in which to explain
why the proposed action should be considered by the Delegate Assembly. Appeals shall only be accepted from the submitter of the proposed resolution that has received the negative recommendation of its proposal. Those proposed resolutions that have received a “Do Not Adopt” recommendation from the Resolutions Committee, and of which the committee has not received a timely written appeal of the negative recommendation from the submitting entity, will not be considered by the Delegate Assembly.
9. Reaffirmation of Existing Position Statements — The Delegate Assembly has the authority to reaffirm existing Position Statements. Proposals to reaffirm an existing position may be initiated by member school boards or the Resolutions Committee. All such proposals shall be submitted through the same procedure as all other resolutions and shall meet all criteria and constitutional timelines applicable to all resolutions.
10. Other Recognition — Members of the Resolutions Committee and IASB staff shall be given the privilege of the floor at the discretion of the presiding officer.
11. Voting — The indications to signify voting shall be specified by the presiding officer.
12. Nomination — the consent of any nominee from the floor during the election of officers must be secured in writing prior to presentation to the Delegate Assembly, as required in Article IV, Section 1, of the IASB Constitution.
RESOLUTIONS PROCEDURES 1. Types of Resolutions — (Article IX, Section 1) Resolutions may be either in the form of a position statement or a belief statement. Position statements address issues affecting or concerning local boards of education; they direct the Association’s advocacy efforts. Belief statements express significant values commonly held by local boards of education; they may or may not call for action to be taken by the Association. 2. Proposals — (Article IX, Section 2) Resolutions for proposed position statements or belief statements may be proposed by any Active Member, Association Division, the Association’s Board of Directors, or the Resolutions Committee. Resolutions to be published and distributed to the Active Members must be submitted to the Resolutions Committee at least 150 days prior to the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly. 3. Presentation of Resolutions — (Article IX, Section 3) The Resolutions Committee shall review all proposed resolutions, distribute a final draft of proposed resolutions to the membership not less than 45 days prior to the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly, and may recommend the approval or disapproval of any resolution to the Delegate Assembly. The Resolutions Committee has the prerogative to determine which resolutions are to be presented to the Delegate Assembly; and whether they are presented as position statements or belief statements. However, all resolutions that are timely submitted to the Resolutions Committee according to Section 2 above, must be distributed to Active Members not less than 45 days prior to the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly. 4. Annual Review — (Article IX, Section 4) The Resolutions Committee shall annually review currently in force position statements and belief statements to determine whether they are consistent with the current positions or beliefs of Association members. The Resolutions Committee shall recommend that the Delegate Assembly amend or rescind any position statement or belief statement that is not consistent with the current positions or beliefs of Association members. All position statements and belief statements currently in force will be published annually and distributed to Active Members prior to the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly. 5. Appeals — (Article IX, Section 5) Any Active Member, Association Division, or Association Board of Directors, that has submitted a proposal that has received a negative
recommendation from the Resolutions Committee, shall have the right to appeal the decisions of the Resolutions Committee at the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly. Notice of appeal must be submitted in writing to the Resolutions Committee. The committee must be in receipt of the written appeal no later than the close of business eight calendar days before the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly. A majority of the delegates present and voting at the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly is required for consideration of appeals. 6. Amendments to Resolutions — (Article IX, Section 6) Any proposed amendment to a resolution that does not meet the time requirements as set in Section 3 above shall be immediately remanded to the Resolutions Committee for consideration. 7. Late Resolutions — (Article IX, Section 7), Resolutions which are not presented to the Resolutions Committee at least 150 days prior to the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly may be considered only by the following procedure: Such resolutions may be proposed by an Active Member, Association Division, Association Board of Directors, or the Resolutions Committee and submitted in writing to the Resolutions Committee. Any resolution which is not submitted in the manner described above shall not be considered by the Delegate Assembly. Late resolutions shall be considered for approval by the Resolutions Committee. The Resolutions Committee may recommend approval or disapproval of the late resolution to the Delegate Assembly. Any such resolution disapproved by the Resolutions Committee may be appealed by a seventy-five (75) percent majority vote of the delegates present. Delegates seeking authority to present late resolutions at the Annual Meeting of the Delegate Assembly shall provide copies for all delegates present at the meeting, including rationale and relevant supporting documentation. 8. Order of Resolutions — Each resolution to be adopted will be considered in the following order of categories: Educational Programs, Financing Public Education, Legislative Activity, Board Operations and Duties, Board Employee Relations, Local State Federal Relations, and District Organization and Elections. Reaffirmation or deletion of existing positions will be done with a single motion unless a delegate wishes a particular position or positions to be considered separately.
Resolutions ProceduresResolutions Committee Report, 2021 7
NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT AUGUST 2021
The 2021 Nominating Committee proposes the following officer slate for Delegate Assembly consideration, 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 20, 2021
President Simon Kampwerth, Jr. Peru ESD 124
Vice President Mark Harms Flanagan-Cornell Unit District 74
2021 NOMINATING COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP
Mark Christ Director, Southwest Division
Thomas Ruggio Director, DuPage Division
Sue McCance Director, Western Division
Sheila Nelson Director, Shawnee Division
David Rockwell, Alternate Director, Blackhawk Division
Jim McCabe, Alternate Director, Starved Rock Division
Nominating Committee ReportResolutions Committee Report, 2021 8
NEW RESOLUTIONS
BOARD – EMPLOYEE RELATIONS 1. Pre-Service Teacher Education and Licensure in
Literacy Submitted by: Avoca SD 37
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall advocate for legislation mandating the Illinois State Board of Education require pre-service teachers seeking licensure in the areas listed complete at least one undergraduate level literacy education course solely dedicated to scientifically proven methods of reading instruction. Before being granted licensure in the following areas, individuals must receive a passing score on the most recently published Foundations of Reading Exam using cut scores in the formal standard setting process. Licensure areas that should meet these requirements are: Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary Education, English Language Arts, Middle Grades Language Arts, Reading Specialist, Reading Teacher, Special Education, Speech Language Pathologist, and English Language Learner Teachers. District Rationale: In the 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress report, only 34% of Illinois 4th graders and 35% of Illinois 8th graders taking the test scored as “Proficient or Above” for their grade level. Low literacy level can be a lifelong obstacle to success, academically and economically. Such an obstacle not only correlates to behavioral challenges and higher dropout rates for students, but in the long term low literacy represents a challenge for communities and broader economic success in Illinois. For too long, despite there being clear scientifically supported evidence on how to teach our youngest students to read successfully, teacher education programs in Illinois have failed to provide pre-service teachers the appropriate coursework. These methods are clearly identified by long- standing scientific research and include but are not limited to: phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, decoding, and comprehension. In a 2020 study conducted by the National Council on Teacher Quality, 43% of university teacher education programs in Illinois earned a “D” or “F” grade for how they prepared students to teach scientifically proven methods for reading. “Not only does Illinois not do well, but there are no signs of improvement and that runs counter to what we’re seeing in many states,” said Kate Walsh, president of the National Council on Teacher Quality. “It’s extremely frustrating to see. Kids aren’t learning how to read and what is more damaging to your life than not learning that essential skill?” The most effective path is to ensure that teachers in Illinois are trained in the scientifically proven methods of reading instruction so that the future of Illinois students, communities, and the economy is more secure than it is today.
Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee heard testimony on the need for an overhaul to the way teachers are prepared to teach students to read. After much discussion, the committee asked if the district would be willing to accept the language in the staff rationale and the district declined. They were then asked if they would be willing to add ELL teachers to the Resolution, and they accepted that change. The new language would read: “Be it resolved that the Illinois Association of School Boards shall advocate for legislation mandating the Illinois State Board of Education require pre- service teachers seeking licensure in the areas listed complete at least one undergraduate level literacy education course solely dedicated to scientifically proven methods of reading instruction. Before being granted licensure in the following areas, individuals must receive a passing score on the most recently published Foundations of Reading Exam using cut scores in the formal standard setting process. Licensure areas that should meet these requirements are: Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Elementary Education, English Language Arts, Middle Grades Language Arts, Reading Specialist, Reading Teacher, Special Education, Speech Language Pathologist, and English Language Learner Teachers. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
2. Student Safety and Protection Plan Submitted by: Mercer County SD 404
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support and advocate for legislation which provides local school boards the option of developing Student Safety and Protection Plans which allow voluntary district employees, in any capacity, the ability to carry a concealed firearm on district property, provided the employee has a valid Illinois Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card, holds a certified Illinois Concealed Carry License, and has completed all additional trainings and certifications set forth by the respective school board, one of which must include yearly certified active shooter training. Only district employees who fulfill all requirements listed and receive superintendent and board approval would be eligible as an active and armed part of the Student Safety and Protection Plan. District Rationale: The safety and protection of our students and school staff is one of the top priorities in each district. School boards are always asking what more they can do to prevent or stop a tragedy from occurring in their schools. One proposal is to allow local school districts the option to have voluntary armed staff in their buildings. The most misunderstood part of this topic is that this resolution is about LOCAL CONTROL, one of IASB’s top priorities. This resolution if adopted would not compel or require any school district or school board to develop or implement an armed staff plan. Our state is not homogenous
New ResolutionsResolutions Committee Report, 2021 9
north to south, east to west. Our communities and districts differ greatly. Some communities are perfectly comfortable with having their teachers and school staff trained and armed so they can protect the people in their buildings. Other communities are adamantly opposed to the idea. That is OK! The districts in our state should be allowed to determine what is best for them, rather than those in Springfield who do not know or understand communities outside their own. As for Mercer County, it sits along the Mississippi River, just south of the Quad Cities. The District is 378 square miles in area. We have five buildings in three towns, one which doesn’t have a police force of its own, and a second which has one full-time officer. The third town has its own police department, as well as the sheriff ’s department, since it’s the county seat. One huge issue we face is the response time. The junior high is seven to eight minutes away from ANY police presence and an elementary is 20 minutes away from the sheriff ’s department. Prior to 2017, Mercer County only had one SRO at the high school for four hours per day. We have been trying to hire SRO’s for our five buildings for five years now. At first we wondered where we would find the money to hire five officers. But we knew that in a few years’ time the TIF would expire and we would have increased revenues locally. In the meantime, we had private citizens approach us, offering to cover those costs until the TIF came off. Since the offer, we have been working with both the county sheriff and the city police, attempting to hire five SRO’s. Even with the money available, getting staff to fill the positions has been a nearly impossible task. We appreciate the resolution proposed by Wheeling SD in 2019 to provide funding to districts without the means to pay SRO salaries, but that won’t solve our situation. The city police chief has been authorized by his city council to hire more officers for years now, but is having little luck. He was able to secure an SRO for our high school in the 2020-2021 year, but he left the position after only a few months. As for the sheriff ’s department, they are in the same boat finding staff, but are also handcuffed by a county board struggling with a horrific financial situation. When we approached the county board about adding SRO’s from their department, with the district willing to pay for the nine months they would work for us, we were turned down. We came back with an offer to pay for all 12 months, despite the officer working three months for the county. That they did accept. Now we have one full time SRO in one building out of the five. They have not been willing to approve any more officers through the sheriff ’s department, even with us funding the position 100%. Setting aside our inability to get SRO’s to staff our buildings, our board still believes individual districts should be allowed to decide how best to operate. Local board members live in their communities and know them better than anyone else can. Each of our districts is unique, but one thing we all agree on – we are adamant about our students’ safety. We have differing ideas about how to accomplish that, but it IS everyone’s goal. I know this resolution puts forth an idea that some districts would not approve for themselves. But there
ARE districts in this state who WOULD be comfortable with this solution. Why does one size have to fit all on this issue? What we are asking for is a CHOICE. It may not be your district’s choice, and that’s OK. Local control is a great principle for IASB. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee discussed that the proposed resolution had been presented several times before it being rejected by the Delegate Assembly every time. The submitting district is a rural district with a long response time for emergency personnel to arrive at the school. While the district has money available to hire a Student Resource Officer (SRO), it struggles to hire or keep one at the school. The resolution would allow a protection plan that allows a voluntary school district the ability to carry a concealed firearm on school grounds, provided that employee has completed all the proper training and certifications necessary and required by the school district. After lengthy discussion, a motion was made to “Do Not Adopt.” That motion failed. After additional discussion including the need to address the SRO situation, a motion was made and that motion carried. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
BOARD OPERATION AND DUTIES 3. School Board Member Compensation
Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support legislation that provides for fair and reasonable compensation for school board members. This compensation shall help relieve the financial burden incurred by board of education members so that they can attend school board meetings, board committee meetings held in compliance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act, and for events regarding school district staff and other official school board business not already compensated. District Rationale: The board of education has a vested interest in ensuring that every eligible community member who wishes to serve their public school students as a board member is not excluded from serving due to financial reasons. Serving on a board of education requires board members to miss work, facilitate childcare and other family care, and travel. These needs can be very costly, which creates inequitable barriers to democratic service. Board members can spend many hours a week attending regular and special board meetings, Board and Superintendent Committee meetings, and events regarding school district staff (from 4.02 Board Member – Travel Reimbursement). These duties are essential to being an effective board member. Local board of education members in Illinois do not receive a stipend or any other form of compensation, unlike many other elected officials. This can make serving on a board of education impossible for community members who are otherwise eligible to serve as an elected or appointed school board member, but who cannot afford the personal costs associated with service. This especially impacts parents and guardians
of school children because they have to pay for childcare, which disproportionately impacts potential policymakers who know their community’s students best, and people who are of lower economic status who cannot afford to miss work to attend school board meetings and related events. The purpose of this resolution is to remove barriers to serving on school boards so that the representation of school board members across the state more accurately reflects the demographic makeup of each school district’s student population. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee discussed several recurring themes regarding their opposition to providing school board member compensation. Similar resolutions have been heard and defeated in 2006, 2011, and 2019. Currently, the School Code (105 ILCS 5/10-10) requires that school board members serve “without compensation.” The code goes on to state “except as herein provided,” but it does not provide any specific situations that will permit compensation. The committee recognized that without compensation for the costs associated with having to attend meetings, such as childcare and lost wages if meetings fall during a person’s work schedule, citizens may be excluded from board member service because of these financial hardships. However, numerous issues were raised supporting a “Do Not Adopt” motion. Committee members ultimately expressed that the money would be better spent on students. Other concerns raised by the Committee were about the message that would be sent to the public if school board members began asking for compensation: Are you just doing it for the money? Do you not have a passion for the students? Couldn’t the money spent on paying board members be better spent on educating children? Would the credibility of volunteer school board members be placed in jeopardy? Other questions were raised about the source of the funds to pay school board members (State money or local money?). The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
4. Board Member Childcare Reimbursement Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support and advocate for legislation that allows for board members to be reimbursed for childcare costs as a result of participation in board meetings. Removing barriers to increase access and participation of potential board members is core to the mission of the IASB. District Rationale: To build on the current American Rescue Plan where quality, affordable childcare is addressed, we proposed allowing reimbursement for childcare and associated costs for board members attending official board meetings and related activities (i.e. annual Illinois school board conference). Such reimbursement could expand opportunities for parents and guardians of currently-enrolled K-12 students, especially those parents and guardians of lower socioeconomic status,
to serve as school board members. We recognize that it may be easier to account for childcare for some board members and not others, often those whose voices are missing from decisions, policies, and actions. Ensuring that our children are safely and properly taken care of while we are advocating for the children of our community is essential. Needing childcare to attend board meetings can be a hindrance as potential candidates who are deciding to run for school board and other elected offices. This proposed reimbursement is specifically for parents and guardians who may face economic barriers to elected service because of personal financial costs incurred from childcare, meals, and taking leave from work to attend Board meetings and events. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee recognized that with the advent of many new child-rearing aged lawmakers and publicly elected officials, a national effort has arisen to provide childcare costs for those elected/campaigning persons to receive reimbursement. Additionally, they discussed the impact of a school board member’s inability to attend meetings and carry out the requirements of school boardsmanship when they are unable to afford childcare or have to take time off from work. This reality may disenfranchise many who may be willing and eligible to serve, but are unable to overcome the financial burden to consider public service. Recently, in Illinois, recognition of this hardship by lawmakers resulted in legislation allowing campaign funds to be used for childcare and dependent family member care reimbursement to become law, June 17, 2021. Public Act 102-0015 provides that the expenditure prohibition does not apply to expenditures by a political committee for expenses related to providing childcare for a minor child or care for a dependent family member if the care is reasonably necessary for the public official or candidate to fulfill political or governmental duties. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
5. Remote-Virtual School Board Open Meetings Submitted by: School District U-46
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Illinois General Assembly to pass legislation to allow school boards, and committees of school boards, subject to the Illinois Open Meetings Act (105 ILCS 120/7) to allow open or closed meetings to be conducted via audio or video conference, without the physical presence of a quorum of the members, so long as provisions are included: addressing verification of members present with full access and participation in the meeting; providing that public members attending in person at the location can observe all votes and discussion of the body; providing certain personnel are present at the posted meeting location; addressing the process for how votes are conducted to guarantee identification and proper recording; providing appropriate notice to news media and public regarding time, location, and methods of participation; providing appropriate verbatim record and recording of meetings are maintained and provided to the public; to remove restricting remote
participation to only times of personal illness, disability, employment purposes, or family emergency. District Rationale: The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that Illinois school boards can effectively conduct the public’s business while increasing transparency and access to its citizens. With appropriate guardrails, including public notifications of how the public can participate, the proposed resolution is intended to allow board members to conduct meetings via audio or video conferencing even during periods when there is not a public health emergency. Public meetings conducted via audio or video conferencing allow for more opportunity and access for public participation, particularly for boards of education and advisory committees of the board who meet multiple times per month. Resolutions Committee Rationale: Many school districts across Illinois have had positive results with their community and in board of education work, holding audio/video conference school board meetings. As is referenced in the submitted resolution, certain provisions guaranteeing proper adherence to requirements under the Open Meetings Act are critical to maintaining transparency and viability of remote, video conference board meetings. The Resolutions Committee agreed that this can be a win- win for the board of education and community but wanted to make sure that certain requirements remain, to guarantee access is provided for ALL citizens seeking participation in board meetings. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
DISTRICT ORGANIZATION AND ELECTIONS
6. Reorganize Board – From 28 to 40 days Submitted by: United Township HSD 30
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support legislation to change the legal requirement of reorganizing a newly elected board of education to “from within 28 days” to “from within 40 days” of the election. District Rationale: The Election Code states that the election authority must canvass the vote within 21 days after the election. The School Code requires boards to, within 28 days after the consolidation election, hold an organizational meeting to elect electing officers and fix a time and place for the regular meetings. Oftentimes, boards of education have to call a special reorganization meeting because regularly scheduled meetings are outside the legal day limit (currently 28 days). Many school districts struggle to recruit and retain board members. Supporting legislation to reduce the needs for special meetings reduces the burden on elected volunteers. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The submitting district testified to the merits of providing 12 additional days,
outside the 28 days provided by the Election Code, allowing school districts to schedule a post-school board election organizational meeting on a regular, annually scheduled meeting date. Oftentimes, the election dates don’t coincide with the school board’s annually adopted meetings calendar. The Open Meetings Act, 5 ILCS 120/2.02 requires that local elected bodies including school districts give notice of their regularly scheduled meetings for the upcoming year, either at the beginning of the July 1 fiscal year or January 1 calendar year. While now and then, the election calendar may change with legislative action, the Consolidated Primary Election date is set by statute in the Election Code 10 ILCS 5/2A-1.1 and 1.1a, as “the first Tuesday in April.” This allows time for school districts to adjust their school board meeting calendars for the organizational meeting, if they did not provide for that special meeting when the yearly calendar was adopted in July or January. The submitting district’s rationale provides the election process timeline that was set in the Election Code 10 ILCS 5/17-22 and School Code 105 ILCS 5/10-5, when Illinois adopted new voting procedures to allow for alternative voting opportunities for Illinoisans. Prior to the adoption of the new election results provisions, school boards were required to be organized “within seven days” of the canvass which was carried out immediately, prior to the 2004 election code changes extending the timeline to 21 days. Since the adoption of the 2004 changes, IASB has heard from school board members about the 28-day period in every Consolidated Election cycle since the change. Board members and administrators articulate a myriad of challenges and opportunities with 28 days between election day and seating board members, such as “lame duck” voting on important initiatives before the new board members are seated and conversely the ability to provide training for newly elected board members before taking office. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 7. Indigenous People Curriculum Inclusion
Submitted by: Berwyn South SD 100
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support legislation to include the study of Native Americans/Indigenous People for Social Studies content and U.S. History. District Rationale: Learning about Native American History, culture, and current events can help us take a more comprehensive view of American history, connect us to one another, inspire empathy, and see the whole picture rather than viewing our society through a limited point of view. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The submitting district discussed the omission of Native Americans and Indigenous people in Illinois curriculum requirements even though most other ethnic groups are included. A suggestion was made to adopt the suggested amendment presented by IASB staff and
the submitting district agreed. The Resolutions Committee discussed the issues with mandated curriculum from the state, but ultimately agreed that this was an area missing from the current U.S. History requirements. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
8. Science of Reading Curriculum Submitted by: Waukegan CUSD 60
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the adoption of legislation that all Elementary Schools in Illinois will use the “Science of Reading” in their K-5 grade levels curriculum, including in-depth Phonemic Education, to teach every student proficient reading skills that include reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary acquisition; and that IASB urge policymakers and legislators to allocate funding for Teacher Professional Development for a minimum of two years to support teachers in learning how to teach the Science of Reading through Phonics. District Rationale: Reading is a complex act of constructing meaning. Research has shown that successful readers bring to this act a rich background of personal experiences, a repertoire of strategies and skills, and a knowledge of how language and text work. Although beginning readers have less experience with written text, the same basic processes underlie their reading. Despite the importance of personal experiences, research has also shown that phonics has had a positive impact on student reading; therefore, the science of reading, specifically the inclusion of phonics, cannot be ignored or regarded as insignificant but rather an intricate part of reading instruction. The absence of such decision has seriously constrained teachers and children’s access to a full range of literacy resources. Phonics, despite being one of many important strategies used by all readers, should be elevated to a higher level of importance in light of low reading scores across the state as indicated on state/district report cards. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee weighed the content of the proposed resolution with the information received on a similar proposed resolution previously in the meeting. It was noted that the proposed resolution being presented was more restrictive than the previous resolution as it required changes to local curriculum in contrast to changes in teacher preparation. The committee agreed with the district presenting the resolution that phonics is certainly important, but the lack of flexibility in the resolution language gave a majority of the committee concerns. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
9. Health & Sex Education Curriculum Submitted by: Mercer County SD 404
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support and advocate for local school district control of content and curriculum for health and sex education courses offered in their districts. District Rationale: This resolution is offered in response to SB 0818 that has been passed by both the Illinois House of Representatives and the Illinois Senate. We firmly believe in a local district’s right to determine the curriculum that best suits their community and the students they serve. The local school board is the elected representatives of the local community and understand the thoughts and wishes of the parents who live there. Although SB 0818 currently states a school district “may” (rather than “shall”) use the new curriculum, we have concerns that the state legislature can change this to “shall” at any time without local district input, as we have seen in the past with previous bills. Our school district has adopted a health/sex education curriculum that is utilized successfully, is medically accurate, and is reviewed and accepted by our community’s parents. We have no desire to change from our current curriculum. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee agreed with the submitting district regarding local school district decisions regarding the content of the curriculum being delivered to students, not only for health and sex education but across all curriculum areas. Additionally, committee members shared that their districts, with community buy-in, have chosen health and sex education courses that meet the intent of recently passed legislation calling for an age and developmentally appropriate, medically accurate, complete, culturally appropriate, inclusive, and trauma-informed comprehensive curriculum. They shared that flexibility should be afforded districts for curriculum content and that requiring the curriculum to be tied to a nationally determined standard is too far removed from local decision making. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
FINANCING PUBLIC EDUCATION – OTHER
10. Cannabis Sales Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall introduce and support legislation that would allocate 20% of state tax revenues from cannabis sales to public education programs that support youth development, violence prevention, and health education. These funds shall be divided equitably across the state based on the Disproportionately Impacted Area (DIA) maps that determine the R3 funding (https://r3.Illinois.gov/eligibility).
District Rationale: The board of education has a vested interest in ensuring that our district’s programming needs are fully funded. On January 1, 2020, adult-use recreational cannabis sales were legalized in the state of Illinois, and a portion of the revenue has been committed to funding racial justice and antiracism education efforts across the state. Cannabis sales have generated more than $175 million in tax revenue. The board of education is proposing that the Illinois Association of School Boards shall introduce and support legislation that would allocate no less than 20% of cannabis sales tax revenue be distributed equitably to school districts, especially those situated in communities heavily impacted by drug use and addiction, to fund public education programs that support youth development, violence prevention, and health education. Resolutions Committee Rationale: In discussing the possibility of using cannabis sales tax money to fund schools the Resolutions Committee emphasized the importance of the potential new money to be supplemental and not supplanting of current funding. While there was some hesitation among the committee on whether or not supporting this type of resolution would send the wrong message to students, the submitting district acknowledged those concerns, but also reiterated that the school could provide more student services with additional money. The current structure for distribution of cannabis sales tax revenue was discussed and it was recognized that schools are currently receiving some cannabis proceeds through the General Revenue Fund. Ultimately, the committee threw their support behind the resolution. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
11. Clean Energy Infrastructure Federal Funding Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Congress of the United States to provide federal funding to school districts for clean energy infrastructure, including, but not limited to, solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, and wind turbines. District Rationale: School campuses are often excellent candidates for clean energy Infrastructure. Flat, unobstructed roofs are good sites for solar panels, geothermal wells can be dug underneath playgrounds or fields, and large campuses can be good sites for wind turbines. When districts generate some of their own renewable energy, they can keep the community’s air cleaner and save significant amounts of money on utility bills. But installation costs are significant, and it’s hard for districts to justify spending money on capital costs that don’t directly impact student achievement. Federal funding for such improvements would solve that problem and help districts reduce their operating costs, leaving more funds for direct programming. Resolutions Committee Rationale: Resolutions Committee members commented on clean energy projects their schools are already undertaking. One committee member mentioned a solar project that their district just completed and also expressed concerns of the diversion of federal funding
when the current system was working. The committee acknowledged the potential value in clean energy projects, but ultimately did not find the need to support the proposed resolution. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
12. Electric School Buses/Charging Stations Federal Funding Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Congress of the United States to provide federal funding to school districts for clean electric school buses and charging stations. District Rationale: Around 95% of school buses nationwide run on diesel. But according to the US Environmental Protection Agency, diesel fumes are linked to higher rates of asthma and cancer. Newer research indicates that air pollution from both diesel and gas powered vehicles is linked to lower test scores and higher rates of behavioral disorders. Electric buses charged with clean electricity can significantly reduce such air pollution and help our students and communities become healthier. Federal funding for these improvements would:
• Enhance student achievement • Enhance student and community health • Reduce transportation costs for districts and for the state • Potentially reduce issues with student discipline
Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee questioned the submitting district about why the resolution was limited to only electric buses and not other types of cleaner burning fuel such as compressed natural gas. Much discussion was had around the question of whether or not electric buses were practical for all areas of the State of Illinois, especially rural areas. With recognition that electric bus technology has advanced recently, concerns over practicality for all districts lead to a decision by the committee to not recommend the resolution. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
13. Landscaping Federal Funding Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Congress of the United States to provide federal funding to the school districts for landscaping and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the effects of environmental problems. These may include, but not limited to, rain gardens, pollinator gardens, stormwater detention areas, trees and perennial plants whose root structure can help soil erosion, and sidewalks, bike paths, and covered bike parking to encourage students and staff to use active transportation to get to school.
District Rationale: The Resolutions Committee connected with personal stories about flooding issues the submitting district had how the type of changes proposed in the resolution could have prevented some of those issues. The committee suggested an amendment and the accepted amended language now reads: “BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Congress of the United States to provide federal funding to the school districts for landscaping and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the effects of environmental problems. These may include, but not limited to, rain gardens, pollinator gardens, stormwater detention areas, trees and perennial plants whose root structure can help soil erosion, and sidewalks, bike paths, and covered bike parking to encourage students and staff to use active transportation to get to school.” There were some concerns over the specificity of the proposed resolution, but it was ultimately decided that the details provided good guidelines. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES 14. Expand Broadband Internet Access
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall actively present, support and advocate for legislation that expands broadband internet access for families across the State of Illinois. District Rationale: As school districts in Illinois moved to remote learning opportunities for their students in the midst of COVID-19, ongoing disparities of internet access were exposed. Even those districts that were able to go to one-to-one computing for students still found that many families were not able to access the district’s internet services consistently. Even worse, many of our families had no internet access at all for their student(s). We advocate for making the expansion of broadband access a priority for IASB. Both urban and rural communities better understand the need for not just access to the internet but also high speed access as we ensure that ALL of our students have the opportunity to learn when in remote situations. Any opportunity to support legislation in regards to broadband access should include members of IASB. Resolutions Committee Rationale: Many members of the Resolutions Committee had expressed issues with connectivity for students during the remote learning portion of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the current funding structure was discussed, it was found to be deficient based on the number of anecdotal stories shared about the lack of internet access statewide. The language was amended now reads: “BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall actively present, support, and advocate for legislation that expands broadband internet access for families across the State of Illinois.” The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
15. Child Safe Gun Storage Submitted by: Glen Ellyn SD 41
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall support and advocate for legislation which strengthens child safe gun storage laws in the state of Illinois, requiring gun owners to store firearms, whether they are loaded or unloaded, in a securely locked container, if a person under the age of 18 is likely to gain access to the weapon without permission. District Rationale: Illinois currently prohibits any person from storing or leaving his or her firearm unlocked and accessible to a minor under the age of 14 if that person knows or has reason to believe that the minor under the age of 14 who does not have a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card is likely to gain access to the firearm and the minor causes death or great bodily harm with the firearm. Research indicates that strong child access prevention laws decrease unintentional shootings, suicides, and school shootings. Between 70% and 90% of guns used in school shootings perpetrated by shooters under the age of 18 were acquired from the home or the homes of relatives or friends. Furthermore, more than half of gun owners store at least one gun unsafely, without any locks or other safe storage measures. In fact, nearly a quarter of all gun owners report storing all of their guns in an unlocked location in the home. While some data suggests that gun owners with children in the home are slightly more likely than other gun owners to store firearms safely, roughly 4.6 million minors live in homes with loaded, unlocked firearms. Fifty eight percent of school shooters were current or former students, staff, faculty, or school resource officers. Because these perpetrators are part of the school, they are also familiar with active shooter protocols within the district and can plan accordingly. Illinois’s current safe storage laws only apply to children up to age 15. A study by Education Week, whose findings were reported in their magazine in April 2019, “Finally, schools can make it harder for students to act upon violent intent. Sensible security upgrades are part of this, but more important may be tackling the availability of guns. Our data show that 80 percent of school shooters get their guns from family members, most often parents and grandparents, since they are too young to purchase guns themselves.” Knowing how school shooters gain access to their guns and the likelihood that they are familiar with the school and have easy access to guns compels us to advocate for raising the safe storage age limit to 18 to capture the school-aged population in our public K-12 schools. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee recognized the utmost importance of protecting students and school staff. The concerns over the specifics of the proposed resolution were the same as they were when the language was presented in a previous year. The Resolutions Committee ultimately felt that the resolution went too far and that it was not the place of the local school board or IASB to determine the actions people take in their own homes. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
New PositionsResolutions Committee Report, 2021 15
LOCAL – STATE – FEDERAL RELATIONS 16. School Code Review
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards shall lobby the Illinois State Board of Education to complete an in-depth review of the School Code and make recommendations for systemic education change to the General Assembly. This task force shall be representative of student demographics and needs, specifically including race, socioeconomic status, special education, and English Language Learners. The goal shall be to provide recommendations to change sections of the Illinois School Code that disproportionately harm students of protected classes while unfairly benefiting advantaged students. District Rationale: Whereas the Illinois School Code is continuously created and updated by legislation, school districts and school boards find code implementation at a school campus-level harms students and outcomes; and
Whereas legislation is often passed without input from large urban districts serving diverse populations, especially around issues such as student discipline, mandatory drills, awarding district contracts to women- and minority-owned businesses, statewide assessments, unfunded mandates, and special education policies. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee was concerned that the submitting district’s proposed resolution was not focused enough to be achievable. While the committee voiced concern over the fact that the School Code continues to grow year after year, they believed the task of school code review was too broad. Without more clear direction and a more narrow focus the committee was not in favor of the resolution. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO NOT ADOPT.
AMENDED EXISTING POSITIONS
FINANCING PUBLIC EDUCATION – STATE 17. Position Statement 2.20 – Constitutional
Amendment on School Funding Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
The Illinois Association of School Boards shall support passage of an amendment to the Illinois Constitution that would make education a fundamental right, would make it a paramount duty for the state to provide a thorough and efficient system of public education, that equitably serves students and provides an equitable education to all students within the state of Illinois without regard to their race, social and economic status, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, nationality, immigration status disability, or zip code; and, that would provide that the state has the preponderant financial responsibility for financing the system of public education. (Adopted 2006; Reaffirmed 2007, 2014) District Rationale: The board of education has a vested interest in ensuring that every student in our community and in every community in Illinois has access to a free, high quality education that offers them opportunities to reach their academic goals and reach their economic, social,
and political potential. The Illinois state constitution does not currently include education as a fundamental right, which means that the prioritization of funding for public education is dependent on the annual goals of the General Assembly and the governor. The board of education seeks to make public education a top priority for state lawmakers, and an important step in that process is amending our state constitution to affirm that public education is a fundamental right for every child in Illinois. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee noted that the resolution adds verbiage around equitable education regardless of race, social and economic status, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, nationality, immigration status, disability, or zip code. Also included is language recognizing education as a human right, as well as fully funding education as a cost-effective investment. While not fully recognizing education as a fundamental right, the Illinois Constitution does currently include language that the state has “the primary responsibility for financing the system of public education” and the committee was in favor of the changes. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
Amended Existing PositionsResolutions Committee Report, 2021 16
REAFFIRMATION OF EXISTING POSITIONS 18. Position Statement 1.16 – Charter
School - Renewal of Charters Submitted by: Woodland CCSD 50
The Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge adoption of legislation that allows for participation of the host school district in the charter school renewal process for State Authorized Charter Schools. (Adopted 2019; Reaffirmed 2020) District Rationale: Once the charter school is authorized by the state over the objection of the local school board, the school board loses all opportunity to participate in the 5-year renewal proceedings. The local school board lacks any opportunity for meaningful input, participation, or challenge related to the renewal process, despite funding 100% of the charter school (millions of dollars annually). It is akin to taxation without representation. Local control must be honored. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee put all the reaffirmations on a consent agenda and did not discuss the resolutions individually. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
19. Position Statement 1.17 – Charter Schools-At-Risk Students Submitted by: Woodland CCSD 50
The Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the adoption of legislation that defines the special expectations of State Authorized Charter Schools to educate at-risk students, including the requirement that the State Authorized Charter School’s program and operations be specifically designed to attract and service at-risk students, and that the State Authorized Charter School be required to report to the public its progress in achieving these expectations. (Adopted 2019; Reaffirmed 2020) District Rationale: The State Charter School Commission and the Illinois State Board of Education have failed to hold charter schools accountable for balanced enrollment of at-risk students at State Authorized Charter Schools. The Commission and ISBE have taken the position that while the School Code requires charter schools to place a “special emphasis” on educating at-risk students, such language is aspirational and not a requirement. Without a legislative cure, State Authorized Charter Schools are allowed to perpetuate discriminatory practices to deter at-risk student enrollment (students who need and deserve a premium of resources), while receiving 100% of the local tuition rate. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee put all the reaffirmations on a consent agenda and did not discuss the resolutions individually. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
20. Position Statement 2.25 – State Authorized Charter School Funding Submitted by: Woodland CCSD 50
The Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge adoption of legislation which would create a new methodology for the funding of State Authorized Charter Schools which would not have a negative financial impact on the host district, particularly in the spirit of evidence-based funding. With respect to state authorized virtual charter schools, further limit the withholding of state funds from host school districts in proportion to the per pupil expenditure used for building maintenance, classroom supplies, transportation, safety and security, and other costs unique to “brick and mortar” schools. For all state-authorized charter schools, require that proof of continuing enrollment and attendance be submitted quarterly, with prorated refunds to the host school district upon withdrawal of students from the charter school. (Adopted 2012; Amended 2013, 2014, 2019; Reaffirmed 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020) District Rationale: The loss of students from the home school district to the charter school does not equate to a proportionate reduction in host district expenses. Charter schools are the opposite of the consolidation theory. Educating the same number of students with additional facilities, additional administration, and additional staff – all without additional funding from the state – is unsound. The diversion of 100% of a school district’s “per capita tuition charge” means that school boards and local taxpayers pay for 100% of charter school tuition, despite opposing the creation of the charter school. Local control must be honored and restored. The state assumes no financial responsibility for the charter school, despite opening the school over the objection of the local school board. The state oversees operations of the school; thus, it should bear responsibility for funding the school. The current funding model erodes the values and the intent of evidence-based funding (“EBF”) for school districts and ensures that State Authorized Charter Schools receive all of the benefits of EBF, even if the student body at the charter school is vastly different. Effectively, charter schools can receiving funding windfall by receiving 100% of the local tuition rate, while not being required to provide the same/ similar services and operations to the same student population. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee put all the reaffirmations on a consent agenda and did not discuss the resolutions individually. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
Reaffirmation of Existing PositionsResolutions Committee Report, 2021 17
21. Position Statement 2.04 – Funding Special Education Programs Submitted by: Champaign CUSD 4
The Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge the Congress of the United States to adequately fund Public Law 94-142 (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) commensurate with the mandates required by the Act; and:
• Shall strongly encourage the State of Illinois to totally fund with new monies, in a timely manner, the extra costs of educating children with special needs including transportation and accessibility costs;
• Shall seek changes in current practice to fund local districts for special education professional personnel at 51% of the prior year’s average salary for such professionals;
• Shall continue to oppose any requirement that local public school districts pay room and board costs for any handi- capped child placed in private facilities;
• Shall encourage the state to create a new line item with funding from new dollars that school districts could re- quest a one-time grant from, if a high-need child enrolls, or is identified, in the district after September 30 of the school year; and
• Shall support modifications to state laws that would equal- ize the reimbursement provisions so funds would be distributed through a placement neutral process.
(Portions adopted 1977, 1980, 1986; Portions Reaffirmed 1985, 1986, 2002; Amended 1988, 2000, 2001, 2019) District Rationale: From the U.S. Department of Education website; The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law that makes available a free appropriate public education
to eligible children with disabilities throughout the nation and ensures special education and related services to those children. Under the IDEA, students with disabilities who require specialized instruction must receive the services they need without cost. Therapies and supports can’t be limited or eliminated based on available funding. All districts are legally and financially responsible for each student’s plan for special education services. The current IDEA funding level is at 13% according to IDEA Money Watch, which monitors IDEA funding. Due to the lack of appropriate federal funding, school districts are many times underserving students receiving special education services, therefore creating conflict between schools, students, and parent/ advocates. Parents unable to afford legal counsel or an advocate are left stranded in the education system frustrated and lost. The global pandemic highlighted the crisis in loss of instructional opportunities for students with disabilities. School districts would be better prepared to serve ALL students with full funding by being proactive and confident in the ability to provide services without the threat of due process. Continued lack of full funding by Congress contributes to systemic racism, ableism and has led to the general education classroom being the most restrictive environment for students with disabilities. School districts and most importantly, students, deserve and require full funding for services. Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee put all the reaffirmations on a consent agenda and did not discuss the resolutions individually. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
NEW BELIEF STATEMENTS 22. Prepare All Students to Succeed
Submitted by: Indian Prairie CUSD 204
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards believes that school districts should prepare all students to succeed and cultivate learning. To that end, IASB urges school districts to consider adopting a policy encouraging students to complete assignments, within a reasonable time frame, even after the due date; by developing guidelines on how to grade a student’s late assignments. District Rationale: Educational inequities exist, creating barriers in a student’s learning. As educators, the focus should be on whether a student has learned the assignment, rather than the letter grade. A student who receives a “zero” has no incentive to complete the assignment and the “zero” grade has a heavy and negative impact on the average grade for that class. Rather than punishing a student negatively, schools should encourage their students to complete their work. Recognizing the inequity in testing, several colleges are doing away with national tests and this believe statement would align with national efforts.
Resolutions Committee Rationale: The Resolutions Committee heard testimony from the submitting district about how their proposed resolution would encourage students with a “No Zero” policy as well as a minimum grade of 50% to give a better chance of success. While the pandemic showed inequalities between students, it also provided an opportunity to show compassion to those students who need it. Guidelines would be set by local school districts to encourage students to complete work with a second chance or opportunity. After much discussion, a motion was made to change the Belief Statement. The submitting district did not agree with the change and the motion failed. A second language change was suggested and a motion to accept the amendment was made and that motion passed. The new language reads: “The Illinois Association of School Boards believes that school districts should prepare all students to succeed and cultivate learning. To that end, IASB urges school districts to consider adopting a policy encouraging students to complete assignments, within a reasonable time frame, even after the due date, by developing guidelines on how to grade a student’s late assignments.” The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
New Belief StatementsResolutions Committee Report, 2021 18
AMENDED BELIEF STATEMENT 23. Physical and Mental Health of Students
Submitted by: Glen Ellyn SD 41
BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Illinois Association of School Boards BELIEVES that the overall physical and mental health of our students is of prime importance. Local boards of education and school district officials should have the authority and flexibility to access state and community health services as deemed appropriate. To that end, IASB urges school districts to comply with the required notification provisions regarding vision screening for students, recommends that parents provide for regular and ongoing comprehensive vision, dental, and physical examinations for their children, and encourages school districts to consider adopting a policy requiring optometric vision examinations for all children entering kindergarten.
District Rationale: Students’ success in school is predicated on more than just good vision as a definition of health. The pandemic has exposed just how incredibly important it is that we ensure students are physically and mentally healthy and the devastating consequences of when they are not. To that end, IASB can encourage guardians and schools alike to play a part in an expanded view of students’ wellness, encompassing vision, dental, physical, and mental health. Resolutions Committee Rationale: This amendment expands and clarifies the current Belief Statement #8 to include mental, physical, and dental examinations in addition to the already stated vision screening. The committee agreed that the amendment is in alignment with Illinois State Law and an improvement to the Belief Statement. The Resolutions Committee RECOMMENDS DO ADOPT.
CURRENT POSITIONS
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 1.01 Educational Programs The Illinois Association of School Boards shall urge its member districts to develop educational programs so as to maximize educational opportunities for students by fully utilizing teacher and staff potential, community resources, and physical facilities. The goal of each district shall be to serve the interest, talents, and needs of each child through an outstanding well-balanced program. The Association shall also encourage its members to increase their awareness of the Mental Health Code (405 ILCS 49/15) which supports developments and implementation of a plan to incorporate social and emotional standards as part of the Illinois Learning Standards. School personnel are encouraged to implement trauma-responsive practices to support student success within a trauma-responsive school framework. (Adopted 1959; Amended 1988, 2009, 2019)
1.02 Curricular Material Determination The Illinois Association of School Boards shall support the right and responsibility of each local school board to determine its curricular content including opposing any mandated curriculum. (Adopted 1981; Amended 1983, 1988, 2001, 2013, 2020)
1.03 Physical Education The Illinois Association of School Boards shall support modifications to existing state mandates which shall allow boards of education to establish time requirements and appropriate exemptions for physical educa

2021 resolutions committee report - iasb.com

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